Prefix : Prefix Used to Write Opposite Words for Class 3 English

In this chapter, the students will learn about prefixes that are used to write opposite words. They will learn about the uses of prefix, common errors made while using them and exceptions to the prefix rules.

In this learning concept, the students will learn to:

• Form a useful opposite word with a prefix.
• List of negative prefix that include opposite words starting with ‘im’, ‘dis’, ‘un’, ‘mis’, ‘in’, ‘il’, and ‘ir’.
• Give meaning and list of common prefixes.

Each concept is explained to class 3 English students using illustrations, examples, and mind maps. You can assess your learning by solving the two printable worksheets given at the end of the page. Download the worksheets and check the solutions for the concept, make antonyms using prefixes provided in PDF format.

Definition : 

• Prefix means a group of letters that is added at the beginning of a word to form a new word.
• Prefixes are also used to create opposite words or antonyms. Few prefixes are as follows: mis-, in-, dis-, ir- , im- , il-, un-

1. Mis + understand= Misunderstand
2. In + correct= incorrect
3. Dis +appear= disappear

Meaning of Prefixes :

Prefixes are used to make negative words like untidy, discomfort Let’s take a look at the meaning of a few prefixes.

1. The prefix un - means ‘not’.

    Example: lock – unlock

2. The prefix dis- means ‘not or ‘the opposite of’.

    Example: obey – disobey

3. The prefix mis- means ‘a mistake’.

    Example: Use – Misuse

Uses of Prefixes:

     1. Prefixes are often used to give adjectives a negative meaning. Look at the examples given           below with the meaning written in the brackets.

         Examples:

            a. kind (good-natured)) – unkind (rude to others)

            b. decent (respectable) – indecent (not appropriate)

      2. Prefixes are used to create opposites of verbs prefixes like in- and dis- can be seen

           Examples:

1. appear – dis appear
2. agree – dis agree
3. approve -dis approve
4. believe - dis believe
5. connect-dis connect
6. like - dis like

Examples of common opposite words with prefix

Use – Misuse Advantage – Disadvantage

1. Opposites with the dis prefix words:

2. Opposites with the im prefix words :

3. Opposite words with the prefix ‘in’

4. Opposite words with the prefix ‘Mis’

5. Opposite words with the prefix ‘Un’